The Teacher’s Toolkit Managing the learning environment Kevin Hewitson

Principles behind the Toolkit To act a reminder of the “tools available” to teachers for managing the learning environment To provide a point of discussion about teaching and learning strategies To provide personal reminders of strategies to use when in the classroom

How it came about My own teaching & coaching experiences. Working with teachers. Exploring what works and does not work in teaching.

Using the Toolkit Get together, either formally or informally, (coffee time!) to see what is in the box. Each item is a metaphorical teaching tool. Each person takes a turn to pick an item and explain how they see it associated with managing teaching and learning. Listen and ask questions before passing the toolkit onto the next teacher. Make a note of any strategies that you may like to try, those you want to use more often, or those that may need “sharpening” or bringing up to date.

Building the Toolkit Identify an item that represents a tool you use in your teaching and add it to the box. Remove any items that are ineffective or have limited/little use.

What is in my Toolkit?

Some of the things in my box Owl Watch wait and listen, don’t always jump in. Labels Be careful how you use them, they stick! Family Picture Get to know your learners. Clapping hands Praise effort and strategies not the person.

Some of the things in my box Cup Celebrate achievement, even the small stuff. Mirror Take time to reflect now and then. Badge Promote belonging, it’s a key learning need. Easel Model the behaviour and attitudes you require of others.

Back in the classroom Place the symbol of the tool you wish to practise using on your desk or as a picture on the wall to remind you Extend the toolkit to include your students and their needs in managing their learning

Share your Toolkit me your list of what and why. Tweet list or or using #teachtoolkit